REI offers members free shipping on web orders of $75 and up

Recreational Equipment Inc. has begun offering free standard shipping on purchases of at least $75 made through the web by REI members.

REI, No. 67 in the Internet Retailer Top 500 Guide, says the policy applies to purchases made through REI.com, REI-Outlet.com and by phone. Shipping rates for other purchases start at $5.99, says a spokeswoman for the retailer. Members provide their membership numbers when placing orders to receive the benefit, which applies only to shipments in the U.S. and excludes oversized items.

REI has 3.9 million members. All purchases, either by a member or nonmember, still ship for free to REI’s 110 stores.

REI members pay a one-time $20 fee that entitles them to annual rebate of up to 10% on purchases. Conversion rates for members are higher than for nonmembers, but the spokeswoman declines to provide details.